Eight Things to Check Before Booking a Private-Pool Villa

Two villas that look alike in photographs can deliver very different holidays. The difference usually hides in details the listing does not highlight. Here are eight things worth asking before you book.

1. Pool depth and how you get in

Is it one depth or stepped? Is there a shallow section for children? A ladder or steps? For families with children who cannot swim, this is a safety question before it is a comfort one.

2. How many hours of sun does the pool get?

In hillside villas the pool can fall into shade after midday. That directly affects water temperature, especially early and late in the season.

3. Is the pool heated?

Decisive for April-May and October-November stays. Heating is usually charged separately and must be requested in advance.

4. How private is it, really?

The word "secluded" appears in many listings but its meaning varies. Does the neighbouring terrace overlook the pool? Can passers-by see in from the road? Photo angles do not always reveal this.

5. How often is cleaning and pool maintenance done?

On longer stays, is weekly cleaning included, and on which days is the pool serviced? The pool may be unusable while maintenance is under way.

6. Which rooms have air conditioning, and is it extra?

In some villas air conditioning is only in bedrooms; in others it is billed by the hour.

7. Can a car reach the villa itself?

On steep plots the parking can sit 100 metres below the house. With suitcases and children that distance matters.

8. How far are the nearest shop and pharmacy?

On a villa holiday, shopping is part of the daily routine. A supermarket 12 kilometres away means a 25-minute round trip every day.

Getting these eight answers in writing before booking removes most of the surprises that come up during the stay.